L1-3
CCIT4085 Information Technology Fundamentals
1.3 Hardware and Software
Focus on the relationship and differences between hardware and software.
Page Overview
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Course Title: CCIT4085 Information Technology Fundamentals
Section Focus: Hardware and Software Introduction
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Topics Covered:
Hardware and Software
History of Computers
Hardware Components of Computers
Different Types of Software
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Definition of a Computer:
General-purpose device programmed for arithmetic or logical operations (as defined by Wikipedia).
Considered an electronic device.
Hardware is the physical part of the computer, while Software comprises the instructions that control hardware activities.
Equation for a Computer System: Hardware + Software (+ User)
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Components of a Computer:
Users interact with the computer.
Software Types:
Application Software:
Games, Spreadsheets, Word Processors, Databases, Internet Browsers, Utilities
Operating System Software (System Software):
Hardware Components: CPU, disks, mouse, printer, etc.
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History of Computers:
Began before 1945 with devices like:
Abacus
Slide rule
Mechanical calculator
Hollerith’s Punch Card Tabulating Machine and Sorter
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First Generation Computers (1945 +):
Powered by vacuum tubes
Characteristics: Large Size
Notable Machines: ENIAC and UNIVAC
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Second Generation Computers (1950-1963):
Used transistors
Characteristics: Larger size, included mainframe computers.
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Third Generation Computers:
Utilized integrated circuits (ICs)
Intermediate size with less electricity consumption
Included mainframe and minicomputers.
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Fourth Generation Computers:
Used microprocessors (VLSI design)
Compact size with increased reliability and capacity
Examples: Supercomputers, IBM personal computers.
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Fifth Generation Computers:
Introduced ultra-large-scale integration (ULSI) technology
Involved fields like AI, robotics, and voice recognition.
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Advanced Computers:
Employ massive parallel architectures and vector processors
Networking technology example: NEC’s Earth simulator.
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Future Computer Technology:
Includes optical, quantum, biological, and nano-computers.
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Hardware Definition:
Tangible, physical equipment.
Six Major Components:
Processor
Memory
Input devices
Output devices
Storage devices
Communication devices.
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Hardware Components:
Processor: CPU
Input Devices: Keyboard, Mouse
Memory: RAM, Floppy disks
Output Devices: Monitor, Printer.
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Processor Description:
Central Processing Unit (CPU) and its historical evolutions.
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CPU Functions:
Interprets and executes program instructions
Coordinates hardware devices.
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Internal CPU Structure:
Includes Control Unit, Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), Memory, Registers, Cache.
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Memory Functionality:
Acts as the working space for CPU, important for instruction storage.
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Memory Units Conversion:
Examples of KB, MB, GB, TB conversion.
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Random Access Memory (RAM):
Volatile memory functioning as temporary storage and its characteristics.
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Read-Only Memory (ROM):
Non-volatile memory storing permanent data, like BIOS.
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Comparison of Memory Types:
RAM and ROM function descriptions, data retention characteristics.
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CPU Cache:
Faster than RAM, enhances performance by storing frequently accessed data.
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Memory Capacity Overview:
Memory types: RAM vs. Storage (HDD).
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Input Devices Description:
Examples: Mouse, Keyboard, Scanner, Digital cameras, etc.
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Output Devices:
Examples of printers and monitors.
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Storage Devices:
Examples: Hard disks, optical discs, USB drives.
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Hard Disk Drive (HDD):
Mechanical operation, susceptibility to power loss and magnetic fields.
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Solid State Drive (SSD):
Digital storage with no moving parts, advantages over HDD.
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SSD Performance:
Comparison of boot-up speed and multi-drive configurations.
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Communication Devices:
Examples and uses, e.g., routers, switches.
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System Unit Description:
Houses internal components, various sizes and shapes.
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System Unit Components:
Includes motherboard, ports, buses, and power supply.
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Motherboard Functions:
Main circuit board that allows system components to communicate.
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Motherboard Images/Examples.
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Adapter Cards:
Used to enhance computer functionality.
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Graphics Processing Unit (GPU):
Specialized for graphics rendering and parallel computing tasks.
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GPU Applications:
Uses in gaming, machine learning, cryptocurrency mining.
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Neural Processing Unit (NPU):
Specialized microprocessor for AI tasks.
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NPU Applications and Benefits:
Impact on various fields like healthcare, autonomous vehicles.
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Typical Specifications for a Copilot+ PC:
Minimum requirements and features explained.
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Ports and Connectors:
Discusses connectivity features of the motherboard.
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Examples of Ports and Connectors:
Types including USB, SATA, and network connections.
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Further Ports and Connectors Information:
Details about audio, video, and power connectors.
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USB and HDMI Interfaces:
Types and data transfer rates explained.
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Wireless Data Transfer Technologies:
IrDA, Bluetooth, and WiFi capabilities and speeds.
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Software Overview:
Definition and types (System vs. Application Software).
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Software Distribution Methods:
Definitions for packaged, custom, open-source, shareware, and public-domain software.
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BIOS Explanation:
Importance in motherboard operations.
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Operating System (OS) Functions:
Coordination of hardware activities.
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Operating System Types:
Overview of major OS like Windows, macOS, and Linux.
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Functions of an Operating System:
User interface management, resource management.
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User Interfaces:
Command Line vs. Graphical interface explained.
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Multitasking Support in OS:
Memory management and user account control.
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Device Driver Functionality:
Interaction between OS and hardware.
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Utility Programs of an OS:
Examples include file management, disk utilities, and backup tools.
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Types of Application Software:
Overview of business, graphic multimedia, and home or personal software.
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Reference Link for HDD vs SSD Comparison.
Suggests resources for further reading.